The Absolute State of the World

International humanitarian laws, like the Geneva Conventions, outline how wars should be conducted, protecting civilians from indiscriminate attacks. Acts that harm civilians intentionally, such as using electronic devices as weapons, are considered terrorism. It's crucial to recognize these definitions, as societal views on groups labeled as terrorists can change over time based on political contexts. Moreover, states can also commit acts of terror, as seen with recent events. The fear created by such attacks not only devastates communities but also sends a chilling message globally—implying that criticizing certain actions may lead to personal harm. This complex relationship between acts of violence, international law, and public perception challenges us to question how we define terrorism and accountability, highlighting the inconsistencies and dangers in labeling groups during conflicts.

The media's portrayal of conflicts, especially regarding Israel and Palestine, highlights a disturbing double standard in reporting. When Israel conducts attacks, the language used often downplays the responsibility, utilizing passive voice that obscures accountability. In contrast, reports on Russia's actions are direct about the aggressor. International law prohibits the use of civilian objects as weapons, yet Israel continues with actions that many see as terrorizing civilians, while receiving support rather than consequences. This inconsistency raises questions about accountability and the reasons behind the media’s biased framing. Ultimately, the difference in treatment of nations in conflict reflects broader geopolitical interests rather than a commitment to human rights.

A capitalist state controls society through economic means, the police and military, and ideological influence like media and education. This setup enables the ruling class to maintain power while exploiting working people and the Global South for resources and cheap labor, benefiting consumerism in the West. The flow of goods, particularly through crucial routes like the Suez Canal, exemplifies Western dependency on global markets. Wars and conflicts, such as in Israel and Ukraine, further boost profits for private defense companies, funded by taxpayers. As the working class in the U.S. loses jobs due to these exploitative practices, regions like Scranton suffer economic decline, illustrating post-industrial challenges despite past advancements made by labor movements. Ultimately, this system perpetuates inequality, highlighting how capitalist dynamics affect local and global economies and the intricate link between exploitation and consumer choices

The military industrial complex has shifted from being a controversial concept to an accepted part of American policy. This change has allowed billions of taxpayer dollars to fund private defense companies that profit from war, creating jobs in places like Scranton, Pennsylvania. Historically, this development has gone from unthinkable to normal, driven by war needs and media influence. As the U.S. provides military support to Ukraine and Israel, the public and political will to challenge this system diminishes, allowing wealth to flow from taxpayers to private arms manufacturers. The consequences of this trend raise ethical questions about the motivations for war and the impact on global peace. As we see increased militarization of both foreign relations and domestic law enforcement, it is essential to reflect on the implications of a society where profit from conflict becomes standard practice.

Violence and warfare have drastically shifted over time, with actions once deemed unacceptable becoming normalized. The media plays a crucial role in this shift, often portraying horrific events as strategic successes while desensitizing the public to the suffering involved. It's vital to continue recognizing the humanity behind such tragedies and to advocate for justice, rather than allowing narratives that glorify violence to shape our perceptions. History shows us that what seems unimaginable today can quickly become accepted tomorrow. Therefore, it is our responsibility to reflect on the true impact of these events and to maintain a sense of compassion amidst the bombardment of violent images and stories. Supporting independent voices is crucial, as they strive to challenge mainstream narratives and hold power accountable. By engaging in such discussions and promoting awareness, we can combat the desensitization that threatens our moral compass in the face of ongoing conflicts.

Artistic expression can often feel like a journey of discovery where one stumbles upon deeper truths from seemingly unrelated sources. For instance, a fashion clip led to an exploration of historical contexts, like the impacts of the Sykes-Picot Agreement. This analysis highlights the failures of the media in providing accurate and impartial reporting on current world events, causing distrust among the public. By drawing connections between past and present narratives, we can understand ongoing conflicts better, questioning the inconsistencies in media coverage that can distort reality. Engaging in relaxed, community-focused events allows for discussions that resonate with deeper societal issues, emphasizing the importance of accurate journalism for a functioning democracy.

The borders and nations of the modern Middle East were created by British and French powers after World War I, through the Sykes-Picot Agreement, which disregarded local populations and their complexities. This act aimed to benefit colonial interests, particularly over oil, and set the stage for ongoing conflict in the region. Key figures in media today, like Anna Wintour, have ancestry linked to these colonial efforts, revealing a continuity of elite influence. Their families played roles in colonizing territories and shaping political landscapes in ways that have long-lasting repercussions. This connection underscores a pattern of privilege and power where descendants of those who once exploited resources and people still hold significant sway in modern media, compounding issues and perceptions surrounding the Middle Eastern conflicts rooted in that historical exploitation.

Generational wealth and privilege can lead to a disconnect from the consequences of historical actions. Many elite individuals in media and politics have ancestors who played significant roles in colonialism and conflict, creating systems that maintain existing inequalities. This raises questions about accountability and the narratives presented by those in power, hinting at a lack of critical voices in media. Each generation may inherit ties to past injustices, impacting their understanding of current issues. Personal reflections on one's family history can provide insight into broader societal structures. It’s essential to acknowledge how the past informs the present, shaping perspectives and potentially perpetuating injustices even today. Understanding this can encourage a deeper examination of privilege and responsibility, especially among those who have inherited positions of influence in society, such as in media. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of questioning established narratives and the structures that sustain them.